Post Series: Global Traditional Medicine Systems
In order to spread awareness about the rich living herbal traditions from around the world, this post series is intended to introduce some of the characteristics of the herbal or traditional medicine systems to which plants belong.
Traditional Hawaiian Medicine is a holistic system of healing rooted in the Hawaiian culture. Kahunas are native Hawaiian healers who employ a variety of complementary and alternative techniques to balance health, which is seen as interconnected to body, mind and spirit. Pono is the concept of right living which contributes to health; whereas, a loss of balance would contribute to illness.
Among the traditional medicinal techniques is Ho’oponopono, a practice involving the gathering of community members for healing, reconciliation and forgiveness. La’au Lapa’au is the traditional medicine use of plants. Lomilomi is a traditional form of message therapy, including spiritual or energy work. Hahalapeau is a traditional practice for joint and muscle health involving applying or wrapping warmed hala (Pandanus) leaves on the concerned body parts. Pule (prayer) is seen as an essential aspect of healing, where a Kahuna will offer prayer, along with ceremony, in order to connect with the spiritual nature of healing.
A Kahuna lāʻau lapaʻau would gather, prepare and administer a variety of plants with healing properties. Noni (Morinda citrifolia) is used for promoting overall health and a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal complaints, joint health, stress resilience and immunity. Ki (Cordyline fruticosa) is used for drawing down fever, as a person with fever is instructed to lie on a cool bed of leaves. ‘Awapuhi (Zingiber zerumbet) is a type of ginger used for skin health, toothache and sprains.
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